An Alabama mother, Alexis Scott-Windham, was severely injured in the New Year’s Day terror attack in New Orleans. She was shot in the foot and run over by a vehicle during the attack on Bourbon Street. Despite her painful injuries, Scott-Windham was initially denied a leave of absence from her job at Amazon. After public outrage, the company reversed its decision and granted her paid time off while she recovers.
Scott-Windham, 23, recalled the terrifying moment of the attack, which killed 15 people and injured many others. She found herself trapped under the attacker’s vehicle and was shot in the foot, resulting in multiple fractures and a bullet lodged in her foot. “I just want to share my story with everyone. I don’t want to take life for granted,” she said. She was relieved to survive the horrifying ordeal but remained fearful of losing her job at Amazon.
She had been concerned about her employment situation as she sought medical treatment at the hospital, which was overwhelmed with victims. A stranger kindly offered to drive her to the hospital, where she received care after a long wait. Scott-Windham expressed gratitude for her life, saying, “I just thank God that I’m here.”
Police later informed her that the attack, carried out by 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was premeditated and inspired by ISIS. Jabbar, a former military veteran, had driven his truck into the crowd before being shot and killed by police.
Scott-Windham’s experience has opened her eyes to the fragility of life, and she now values every day she gets to live. She looks forward to healing and sharing her story as a reminder to appreciate life.
